At an average height of 2800 meters, Auli in the Indian state of Uttarakhand is renowned for the fascinating ski resorts and stunning natural vistas
By: HBI Desk
Auli is a popular skiing destination in India because of its glittering slopes and clean environment. Dotted with apple orchards, oaks and deodars, Auli is a popular hill town with numerous ski resorts situated amidst the Himalayan range. Located at 2800 meters above sea levels, it is home to mountain ranges of Nanda Devi, Mana Parvat and Kamat Kamet. Many religious destinations are also scattered around Auli. It is believed that Shankracharya had blessed Auli with his visit. It is a popular hill resort in the Himalayan range dating back to 8th Century AD.
Aptly called as the haven for skiing activities, the harsh frosty storms, the sylvan peaks and the long stretch of snowy valleys would make idyllic surroundings for a skier. The former training ground of the Indo-Tibetan Police Force, Auli has gained the status of a popular hill resort within a short span of time because it is bestowed with all that is enough to thrill the onlookers. The nature at its full bloom gives a feeling of an awe-inspiring time, which cannot be wiped out from our wildest dreams.
Places to visit
Gurso Bugyal: About 3 kms trek from Auli will lead you to the picturesque Gurso Bugyal. Views of the imposing Himalayas like Nanda Devi, Trishul and Dron parvat are invigorating from Gurso Bugyal. Gurso Bugyal transforms to a green pastureland during spring season and wears sheets of snow during the winters. Perched at an elevation of 3,056mts above sea level Gurso Bugyal has mixed forest of oak and conifer. Gurso bugyal is only 1.5km from the last tower of Gondola ropeway.
Chattrakund: It is small lake holding crystal clear water. Chattrakund is situated just 1km ahead of Gurso Bugyal. Located amidst jungle this mysterious lake showers us with fairy tale surroundings.
Kwani Bugyal: It is a popular destination with trekkers situated 12kms from Gurso Bugyal at an elevation of 3,380 mts above sea level. The best time to visit Kwani Bugyal is June and September.
Chenab Lake: One must pass through the last village of Joshimath, Dang Village to reach Chenab Lake. The place is still unknown with the greatest number of tourists and it is quite inaccessible by motorable roads. Therefore, Chenab Lake does not see much of tourists, but the virginity of this place makes it an enchanting spot.
Joshimath: Joshimath is one of the four ‘math’ created by Adi Shankaracharya. Joshimath is the home of Shri Badrinath during winters. Joshimath is connected with Auli by highest cable car of Asia. Joshimath is situated at an elevation of 1,890mts above sea level. Do visit Kalpavriksha and Narsingh temple while a visit to Joshimath. It is situated 14kms from Joshimath.
Trishul Peak: About31 kms from city center, the three Himalayan mountain peaks of western Kumaun as a whole forms the Trishul peak. It is having a height of 7120m. The Trishul group forms the southwest corner of the ring of peaks which encloses the Nanda Devi Sanctuary. In 1907, the main peak, Trishul I, became the first peak over 7,000 m to have ever been climbed by someone. The peak can be best viewed from Kausani or during the Roopkund Trek.
Rudra Prayag: Roughly 63 kms from city center, lying at the confluence of River Alaknanda and River Mandakini, Rudraprayag is a sacred place regarded as one of the Panch Prayags and place of great religious significance. Settled in Uttarakhand, this beautiful town is full of mysterious charm and the spiritual vibes that will calm your senses.
Offering spectacular views and mesmerising panoramic vistas, the town boasts of being blessed by Mother Nature in its full glory. The town derives its name from the Hindu deity Lord Shiva who is said to have appeared at the place in the form of Lord Rudra. Rudraprayag is sprinkled with several ancient temples and serves as a gateway to two major pilgrimages of Kedarnath and Badrinath, offering its visitors a surrounding of serenity and tranquility.
Nandprayag, Karnaprayag: About 32 kms from city center, one of the Panchprayags, Nandaprayag is the place of confluence of River Alaknanda and Nandakini. It is a place of spirituality and devotion as well as beautiful landscapes. A special place of religious, natural and spiritual significance, Nandaprayag is one of the five meeting points of Alaknanda River with other rivers flowing into it
How to reach
By Flight: Jolly Grant Airport is the nearest Airport to Auli situated at a distance of 286kms. Jolly Grant Airport is well connected to Delhi with daily flights. Auli is well connected by motorable roads with Jolly Grant Airport. Taxis are available from Jolly Grant Airport to Auli.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Auli is Rishikesh, situated 264 kms before Auli on NH58. Taxis and buses are available from Rishikesh, Srinagar, Rudraprayag, Chamoli, Joshimath and many other destinations to Auli.
By Road: Buses to Haridwar, Rishikesh and Srinagar are available from ISBT Kashmiri Gate. Buses and Taxis to Auli are easily available from major destinations of Uttarakhand state like Rishikesh, Pauri, Rudraprayag, Karnaprayag, Ukhimath, Srinagar, Chamoli etc. Auli is situated only 14 kms from Joshimath, which lies on NH58.
References: www.holidify.com & www.uttarakhandtourism.gov.in
